Donativo - Albergue de peregrinos Jakobi

The Albergue Jakobi is a municipal pilgrim hostel in Irún, the Spanish border town where the Camino del Norte begins for those crossing from France. Opened in 2018 and run by the local Jacobean association Jakobi (Asociación Jacobea Irun-Bidasoa), it sits just 30 metres off the camino route and about 1.5 kilometres from the town hall, making it a convenient first stop for pilgrims who have just crossed the Bidasoa river from Hendaye.

The hostel operates on a donativo basis, meaning pilgrims pay what they can, and includes breakfast in that arrangement. It accommodates up to 60 pilgrims across three large shared dormitories of 20 beds each. The hostel is staffed entirely by volunteer hospitaleros, which gives it the community-driven character typical of association-run albergues. Pilgrims can also get their credencial stamped here, which matters for those starting their Camino del Norte in Irún.

Facilities are reasonably well equipped for a pilgrim hostel: a shared kitchen, microwave, fridge, a spin dryer, disposable sheets and pillowcases, a garden, and secure covered bike storage. It is also accessible for people with reduced mobility, and pets may be accommodated with prior enquiry. The hostel is open from February through November, with check-in from 16:00 and doors closing at 22:00.